I went through the same decision process. I looked at the CRV, Vue, Rav4, Tuscon, Escape and the Tiguan. I went with the Tiguan; it just doesn't have the space (cargo/passenger) that the others do, but it definitely does have better driving dynamics. I have a 2.0T 4-motion and it's got plenty of torque (in-boost) and the Haldex AWD is great.
The only other complaint I've heard from other Tiguan drivers is that the suspension & ride is harsher than other SUV's. Having an S4 as my alternate car, I don't know what that means .